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The report applies the Sustainable Asset Valuation (SAVi) methodology to Lake Dal in Srinagar, India, to assess conservation options against anthropogenic pressures such as untreated sewage and fertilizer runoff. The analysis concludes that 'business as usual' and certain infrastructure projects, like a proposed road, are insufficient or counterproductive to preventing ecological collapse. The most cost-effective approach identified is a hybrid infrastructure solution combining sewage treatment upgrades, solar photovoltaic power, on-site treatment for lake dwellers, and the construction of an artificial wetland.

The report evaluates multiple conservation scenarios for Lake Dal, concluding that a hybrid approach combining grey infrastructure (sewage treatment plants), solar PV power, and natural infrastructure (artificial wetlands) is the most cost-effective way to prevent ecological collapse and maximize economic benefits from tourism and fisheries.

The document assesses five scenarios for the conservation of Lake Dal, ranging from business-as-usual to hybrid infrastructure upgrades. Using the SAVi tool, it finds that a hybrid approach—combining upgraded sewage treatment with a 500 ha artificial wetland—yields the highest net benefits (INR 360 billion) and the best water quality improvements. Conversely, the 'business-as-usual' scenario predicts a continuous decline in water quality and severe revenue losses for tourism and fisheries by 2060. The analysis also indicates that constructing the Western Foreshore Road would reduce tourism and fishery revenues by over INR 72 billion compared to the hybrid scenario due to damage to lake integrity.